Official press releases and photographs from Disney and Florida attractions.

March 2017 Archives

March 1, 2017

Adventures by Disney Announces New Themed European River Cruise Vacations in 2018

BURBANK, Calif. – Adventures by Disney, a leader in guided group travel worldwide, recently revealed new enhanced river cruise vacation offerings for 2018, including options for special Beauty and the Beast themed experiences along Europe’s Rhine river, and adult-exclusive epicurean style experiences along both the Rhine and Danube rivers.

New Specially Themed Rhine River Vacations

Sailing with AmaWaterways, a premier luxury river cruise line, Adventures by Disney river cruises offer a new way for families to explore the heart of Europe in a way that is active, immersive and easy. In 2018, Adventures by Disney will offer exciting new experiences on its European river cruises, including special experiences celebrating Beauty and the Beast on the popular Rhine river sailings.

Adventures by Disney Rhine river cruises give travelers the opportunity to revel in the beauty of four countries – France, Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands. Whether riding a toboggan and hiking in the Black Forest, exploring the famous storybook Heidelberg Castle, or sampling wine in a medieval basement wine cave, these eight-day, seven-night vacations pair unforgettable adventures in port with luxurious river cruise accommodations and amenities onboard.

On six departures in 2018, travelers will celebrate the quaint villages and culture that inspired the Beauty and the Beast films and savor special experiences. They’ll be immersed in a tale as old as time during a Beauty and the Beast themed dinner, as well as other unique culinary experiences inspired by the film. Families can enjoy screenings of both the live-action and animated versions of the film onboard, then become part of this beloved story as they tour Riquewihr, an idyllic French village that is as picturesque as Belle’s hometown from the movie.

Adventures by Disney will also double the number of popular food and wine themed sailings along the Rhine in 2018, offering two epicurean sailings during the fall. Hosted by renowned chefs and sommeliers, these adult-exclusive sailings will serve up extraordinary food and beverage experiences both on and off the ship. Highlights include activities such as wine tasting, gourmet demonstrations and workshops, culinary walking tours in several ports, a French patisserie class, local beer and wine pairings, craft cocktail blending seminars and more. These cruises were inspired by popular food and beverage offerings throughout Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, such as the fan-favorite Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival.
Danube River Cruises Offering Something for Everyone

In 2018, Adventures by Disney will also offer six departures of its popular Danube river cruises. In addition to bringing back another season of summertime and themed holiday sailings, there will be an all-new adult-exclusive Oktoberfest sailing in September 2018. This special itinerary will visit Germany during the iconic yearly Oktoberfest celebration, and will include festive themed parties and culinary treats both on and off the ship.

These eight-day, seven-night vacations will visit iconic locations and hidden gems in four countries – Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. From revisiting scenes from the movie “The Sound of Music” in Salzburg and exploring Devin Castle in Bratislava to taking a traditional Austrian folk dancing lesson in Melk, the opportunities for exploration on these Danube adventures are seemingly endless.

Designed with guests of all ages in mind, each Adventures by Disney river cruise sailing focuses on variety and flexibility, allowing travelers to customize their trip by choosing from a wealth of activity options offered both in port and onboard.

“For 2018, we looked to find exciting new ways to make our incredibly popular river cruises even more enticing to every type of traveler,” said Ken Potrock, senior vice president of Adventures by Disney. “By increasing the number of special themed sailings along the Rhine and Danube rivers we now offer more choices than ever for our guests. Whether you’re looking to explore the storybook setting of Beauty and the Beast, wine and dine on local specialties during interactive epicurean workshops, stroll charming European Christmas Markets or celebrate during rousing Oktoberfest festivities, Adventures by Disney has carefully crafted personalized vacation experiences to suit your interests and tastes.”

Adventures by Disney guests sail aboard river cruise ships that were custom built by AmaWaterways with families in mind. Design elements include sets of connecting staterooms and suites, some of which accommodate three- and four-person families. Adventures by Disney also worked closely with AmaWaterways to reimagine shipboard spaces and activities, offering unique programming for kids, teens and adults.

“AmaWaterways is excited to expand our relationship with Adventures by Disney and looks forward to welcoming the family travel market to some of Europe’s most unforgettable river cruise destinations in 2018,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways. “A river cruise with AmaWaterways and Adventures by Disney gives families the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Europe’s most breathtaking destinations, and children, parents and grandparents will have meaningful and magical experiences together!”

These new river cruises complement a lineup of more than 30 other Adventures by Disney guided group land-based vacations to destinations on six continents. Adventures by Disney trips take guests off the beaten path in search of the culture, art and unique stories intrinsic to each destination visited.

Bookings for 2018 river cruise vacations open on March 2, 2017. To book, call 1-800-543-0865 or contact a travel agent.

March 3, 2017

Sales for Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, the newest Disney Vacation Club resort, will begin next week. Current Disney Vacation Club Members will have the first chance to purchase real estate interests beginning on March 8, with general sales following on April 5.

The resort, which is currently under construction, also has a scheduled opening date: July 17. Once open, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins will be the 14th Disney Vacation Club development and the second at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

Copper Creek Villas & Cabins offers Disney Vacation Club Members and guests a new frontier for magical vacations where the comforts of home and the wonders of the wilderness are deeply rooted in the magic of Disney. Inspired by the legendary mining and railroad history of the Pacific Northwest, Members and guests will discover rustically elegant accommodations, where cozy touches mix with modern designs to create a tranquil retreat.

Offering one of the widest ranges of accommodations found at Walt Disney World Resort, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins will feature 184 modern, nature-inspired vacation homes, including Deluxe Studios, one- and two-bedroom Villas, and even three-bedroom Grand Villas, which sleep up to 12.

The new resort will also include 26 all-new luxurious waterfront cabins. Sleeping up to eight and featuring two bedrooms, two baths and large dining and living room spaces, the cabins’ floor-to-ceiling windows, exposed wooden beams and interior-exterior stone-hearth fireplace bring the beauty of the outdoors in, and offer plenty of room for families. After a long day of fun at the nearby theme parks, guests can return to their porch and relax in the built-in hot tub. Some even enjoy a view of the Electrical Water Pageant on Bay Lake!

Additional developments at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge include the recently opened Geyser Point Bar & Grill, an open-air lounge overlooking Bay Lake. The resort’s quick-service restaurant, Roaring Fork is also undergoing refurbishments and is scheduled to reopen later this year with a refreshed look and expanded outdoor seating. Boulder Ridge Cove pool, a modern-day swimmin’ hole, will also open this summer.

Those in search of extra pampering will want to stop by the all-new Salon by the Springs for poolside manicures, pedicures and hair services scheduled to open this summer.

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La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil Takes Final Bow Dec. 31

Audiences have until the end of the year to enjoy the theatrical spectacular

Lake Buena Vista, Fla. – March 3, 2017 – After 19 years of dazzling more than 10 million guests with breathtaking acrobatics and stunning choreography, La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil will give its final performance at Disney Springs on Dec. 31. Theatergoers who have yet to see La Nouba, which features daring stunts, vibrant music and whimsical characters, or fans who want to see the Disney Springs staple one last time have until the end of the year to attend a performance.

“We are incredibly proud of the success that La Nouba has had for nearly two decades,” said Jerry Nadal, Senior Vice President of the Resident Shows Division for Cirque du Soleil. “We want to thank Walt Disney World Resort for a wonderful run over the years. We look forward to announcing what’s next.”

La Nouba, which premiered on Dec. 23, 1998, is the first Cirque du Soleil show to take permanent residence in a city outside of Las Vegas. It has entertained, engaged and inspired audiences and throughout the years, the show continued to evolve. Most recently La Nouba introduced two new acts: B-Boy, commonly referred to as breakdancing, and Aerial Bamboo, a technique mastered by only a handful of performers worldwide. The acts joined following the addition of new uproarious clowns and a breathtaking juggling rolla bolla act.

For details about La Nouba, including current offers, or to purchase tickets, visit www.lanouba.com or call 407-939-7600.

March 6, 2017

Newest Kiehl's Store Now Open at Disney Springs

New York-based company brings their personalized service to Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Florida

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (March 3, 2017) — Kiehl's Since 1851, the venerable New York-based purveyor of fine quality skin and hair care preparations, will open its first retail store in Disney Springs on March 3. Kiehl’s is proud to add a sixth location in Florida to discover Kiehl’s efficacious skin, hair and body care products, personalized customer service, and 165-year-old heritage through the complete Kiehl’s experience.

“We are extremely excited to give central Floridian locals and Disney visitors a new opportunity to discover our heritage and history, our philanthropic mission, our sampling and service-oriented approach to retail, and of course, our full line of skin, hair and body care for women, men, children and even dogs,” said Chris Salgardo, Author and President, Kiehl’s USA. “Our customers in Florida have helped drive our company’s growth, supporting Kiehl’s both in stores and online. Demand for a new local retail store has grown, and we’re so excited to open another Kiehl’s to be part of Disney Springs, the world-class entertainment, shopping, and dining destination. Each element of our new store, from the design of the fixtures explaining our skin, hair and body formulations, to the historical photographs, mementos and Kiehl’s icons, helps tell the extensive story of this unique company that began as an old-world apothecary at the corner of 13th Street and Third Avenue in New York’s East Village.”

Kiehl’s at Disney Springs mirrors the unique ambiance found in the company’s original New York Flagship, which began as a neighborhood apothecary in 1851. The new store brings a modern New York apothecary to Florida, referencing the company’s original East Village roots and blending antique apothecary fixtures with modern flair.

Kiehl’s at Disney Springs continues the company’s commitment to superior customer service through its traditional practices:

Kiehl’s commitment to environmental responsibility and Recycle and Be Rewarded! Kiehl’s utilizes natural, sustainable materials and energy-efficient light fixtures – and encourages patrons to recycle Kiehl’s packaging with a specially designed recycling bin, promoted through Kiehl’s Recycle and Be Rewarded! The program offers customers the opportunity to return empty Kiehl’s jars, bottles and tubes to the store for recycling, in exchange for complimentary products.

Kiehl’s commitment to education through attentive service is accentuated through a dedicated personal consultation area. The enhanced space provides an opportunity for Kiehl’s Customer Representatives (KCRs) and patrons to converse privately about products best suited for the customer’s individual needs. KCRs also use tools such as Skin Barrier Testing Tabs and a revolutionary Dehydration Analyzer Tool to help diagnose the health and hydration level of a customer’s skin, and recommend the most appropriate products for him or her.

Simple, no-frills packaging allows Kiehl’s to formulate its products with high quantities of the most efficacious, natural ingredients available.

Kiehl’s Since 1851 Rewards, the company’s point-based loyalty program that honors and rewards customers with benefits including special invitations, offers, and early access to new products and formulations.

Generous sampling through Kiehl’s “try before you buy” program offers the complete Kiehl’s line of skin and hair care for men, women, children and babies with a generous offering of its traditional product samples. To assure its customers always find exactly what they need, Kiehl’s offers a 100% money back guarantee on all purchases, and guarantees that customers will see revitalized skin in 28 days or their money back.

Custom gifting 365 days a year allows customers to create personalized gifts year-round. A Kiehl’s Customer Representative will help the customer assemble a personalized, custom gift box, choosing items based on recipient, theme, ingredient or price, from any and all products in the store.

-- Personal consultation table – A designated table provides patrons a comfortable station for complimentary Healthy Skin Consultations by KCRs, which helps them determine the formulas best suited for their personal needs.
-- Men’s Destination – an unintimidating space for specialized grooming education and demonstrations designed for men. A KCR will be on hand to offer quick, straightforward service and recommendations on the Kiehl’s products that are most tailored to men’s needs. Specially designed accents such as military-style lockers and props bring this relaxing stop to life for Kiehl’s male patrons.
-- Carrara marble tables, counters and trim – provide a utilitarian, functional approach.
-- Natural, sustainable materials – such as tabletops made from paperstone, a waterproof material made from 100 % post-consumer recycled paper.
-- Energy-efficient compact fluorescent lighting – spotlights Kiehl’s products in an environmentally friendly way.
-- “Mr. Bones” – the teaching skeleton and Kiehl’s icon. Pharmacist and Kiehl’s founding family member Mr. Aaron Morse valued education for his employees and his customers. As he prescribed treatments for his customers, he would use a teaching skeleton nicknamed “Mr. Bones” to explain the uses of the suggested formulas.
-- Kiehl’s signature motorcycle – this icon of Kiehl’s heritage will be on permanent display, evocative of the passions and adventurous spirit of Kiehl’s founding family.
-- Vintage photographs and mementos take customers on an exciting journey through Kiehl’s rich history.
-- Botanical-inspired graphics – The walls feature custom graphic designs that highlight the botanicals used in Kiehl’s products and elements nodding to our 165-year history.

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March 7, 2017

Sunday Roast Coming to Rose and Crown Epcot

Rose & Crown Dining Room is well known as a family-friendly pub which offers guests British comfort food and stellar views for IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. Recently, a traditional British favorite, the Sunday Roast, has been added to the menu.

This offer is valid for Tuesday through Saturday performances at 6:00 PM or 9:00 PM, from February 7 to April 29, 2017. There will no performances on March 14, 2017.

Ask about Family Pack tickets that may be available for groups of other sizes, as well as prices for other seating categories. Call (407) 939-SEAT or (407) 939-7328 to check availability and purchase tickets by phone.

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March 9, 2017

Disney Cruise Line to Add Even More Fun on the Disney Fantasy

From New Star Wars and Marvel Themed Areas for Kids, to Delicious Treats for Families and Luxury Shopping for Adults, Disney Cruise Line is Bringing Fun-Filled Additions to the Disney Fantasy

CELEBRATION, Fla. (March 9, 2017) – Exciting new experiences designed for guests of all ages are coming to the Disney Fantasy in May 2017. From exploring the universes of Star Wars and Marvel, to shopping at unique new onboard venues, new highlights include:

Imaginative New Spaces for Kids

In Disney’s Oceaneer Club, an immersive youth space onboard the Disney Fantasy, the new Star Wars: Command Post takes kids on a journey where they will train with heroes of the Star Wars saga and help with missions against the First Order. Here they will interact with holographic models at a one of-a-kind Star Wars holotable that projects 3-D images of the Millennium Falcon, Death Star and other famous Star Wars ships, meet members of the Resistance and learn to channel the Force.

In addition, at the all-new Marvel Super Hero Academy, kids will learn from real-life Super Heroes the heroic values of enlightenment, worthiness and loyalty. In this innovative space children can learn the ways of the mystic arts with Doctor Strange, who is making first-ever appearances onboard a Disney Cruise Line ship. Children will also interact with and open portals to different locales around the Marvel Universe, and immerse themselves in an exclusive gaming experience.

These new Star Wars and Marvel offerings onboard the Disney Fantasy are the newest addition to a growing list of exciting innovations that allow guests to interact with these universes throughout Disney experiences on land and at sea.

Tasty Treats to Delight the Entire Family

Families can enjoy the new Sweet on You ice cream shop, themed after the iconic Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts, and designed with charming art details. Sweet on You will feature hand-crafted gelato and ice-cream, specialty sundaes, homemade chocolates, truffles and a large selection of candy for purchase, all just steps away from the family pool.

Luxury Shopping for Adults

For the first time, Disney Cruise Line will welcome the world’s premier jewelry and iconic American luxury brand, Tiffany & Co., with an exclusive store aboard the Disney Fantasy. Guests can indulge in timeless collections of jewelry and luxury accessories, including the effortlessly elegant Tiffany T collection and other glamorous pieces featuring renowned Tiffany & Co. diamonds.

These additions are part of an overall commitment by Disney Cruise Line to invest in their ships, helping to deliver incredible family vacation experiences for years to come. While making these enhancements to the Disney Fantasy, crews will also perform regularly scheduled and wide-ranging maintenance that keeps the fleet in tip-top shape, further demonstrating the unwavering commitment by Disney Cruise Line to continually elevating the guest experience.

The innovative new enhancements debut on Disney Fantasy sailings starting May 17, 2017 from Port Canaveral, Fla. This first sailing will visit the Bahamas on a 3-night voyage. Beginning on May 20, the ship will resume a regular sailing schedule that includes 7-night voyages alternating between the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

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March 14, 2017

Disneyland Park Salutes Pirates of the Caribbean with Limited-Time Entertainment and Special Offerings for the Attraction’s 50th Anniversary

ANAHEIM, Calif. (March 13, 2017) – Nearly 400 million guests have embarked on this swashbuckling adventure at Disneyland Park. It has inspired a highly popular film franchise, and the lyrics to its theme song–“Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me)”– are recognized around the world. It’s Pirates of the Caribbean, of course, an attraction that celebrates its 50th anniversary on March 18, 2017.

To celebrate this special occasion, guests are invited to enjoy pirate-themed entertainment, merchandise exclusives and special food and beverage offerings beginning March 16. Disneyland is sure to be filled with pirate-talking mates for this limited-time, rollicking fun.

On Friday, March 17: Pirate-themed entertainment comes alive throughout New Orleans Square, including performances by the Bootstrappers and Lucky the Pirate.

Saturday, March 18: Even more entertainment will be added on the attraction’s official anniversary, including appearances by the legendary pirate himself, Captain Jack Sparrow. Guests may purchase limited-edition, anniversary merchandise in New Orleans Square, while supplies last. Pirate Speak! collectible cards will be available for guests who wish to talk like a pirate.

Guests may discover additional special surprises on March 18.

The original Pirates of the Caribbean attraction set the bar for future theme park attractions with masterful storytelling and technology that introduced approximately 120 Audio-Animatronics characters. The popular attraction has inspired five films and the fifth, “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales,” is set to open in theaters May 26, 2017.

March 18, 2017

This summer, there’s an all-new Disney Junior show coming to Disneyland Resort. Little ones will love “Disney Junior Dance Party,” a high-energy, live show experience that takes its inspiration from the most popular Disney Junior shows on TV, including the new series “Mickey and the Roadster Racers,” as well as “Doc McStuffins,” “Sofia the First” and “The Lion Guard.” The show is set to include live appearances from favorite characters, fun music from Disney Junior and much more.

Since its debut in 2003 as “Playhouse Disney – Live on Stage!” featuring “Bear in the Big Blue House,” the show has been updated regularly to include popular characters over the years such as the Little Einsteins, Handy Manny, Jake and the Never Land Pirates, and more from an ever-changing line-up on what is today Disney Junior, the #1 preschooler-dedicated TV network for the past five years. The all-new “Disney Junior Dance Party” opening this summer will introduce a musically infused, interactive concert format that involves guests directly in the experience.

The all-new “Disney Junior Dance Party” show debuts in Hollywood Land at Disney California Adventure park on May 26, 2017!

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March 20, 2017

More Details On Satu'li Canteen in Pandora - The World of Avatar

Beginning May 27, when Pandora - The World of Avatar opens at Disney's Animal Kingdom, guests will be able to dine at Satu’li Canteen, where an on-stage grill is a prominent feature in the colorful dining room.

The back story is that the Satu’li Canteen was once the main mess hall of the Resources Development Administration (RDA) base located in the Valley of Mo’ara. Now the canteen is owned and operated by Alpha Centauri Expeditions (ACE) tour company and has been redesigned into a beautiful museum-like dining room.

The interior has been transformed with colorful Na’vi items filling the walls and hanging from the ceiling -- hand-woven tapestries, natural Pandoran elements and even cooking tools decorate the restaurant.

Look for familiar dishes with a twist in the fast-casual restaurant, with bowls that allow diners to customize their lunch or dinner. Diners start with a base of quinoa and vegetable salad; red and sweet potato hash; mixed whole-grain and rice or romaine and kale salad. Next is either with wood-grilled chicken, slow-roasted beef, sustainable fish or chili-spiced fried tofu. And the bowl is finished with charred onion chimichurri, black bean vinaigrette or creamy herb dressing.

The menu also offers steamed “pods”- bao buns with either cheeseburger or vegetable curry and served with root vegetable chips and crunchy vegetable slaw.

For little ones, there’s an option of grilled chicken or beef, fish or tofu with greens or rice; a hot dog wrapped in Parker House dough; cheese quesadilla, or a steamed “pod” (cheeseburger bao bun).

The fast-casual restaurant will also be the first to offer Mobile Order, a new convenient option to order and pay for meals on-the-go within the My Disney Experience app, allowing guests to bypass the queue to order when they arrive at the restaurant. Using the app, guests can select menu items, customize their order and pre-pay for their meal. When they arrive at the restaurant they will tap an “I’m here” button in the app, which will notify the kitchen to prepare the meal. When ready, guests will be alerted through the app to pick up their meal at a designated window. Additional fast-casual and quick-service restaurants will begin to offer Mobile Order later this year.

Disney Dining Plan is accepted at Satu’li Canteen but, at this time, Mobile Order only accepts credit cards.

Source: Disney Parks Blog

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March 22, 2017

D23 EXPO DISNEY FAN EVENT TO BE HELD IN JAPAN IN 2018

MINATO-KU, Tokyo, March 21, 2017 – The Walt Disney Company (Japan) announced today that it will stage D23 Expo Japan 2018, a special event for Disney fans created by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, over three days from February 10 to February 12, 2018, at Tokyo Disney Resort in Maihama.

D23 Expo is held every two years in the U.S. for Disney’s most passionate fans. The first D23 Expo in Japan was held in 2013 and is unique to Japan while remaining true to the original vision of “The Ultimate Disney Fan Event.” D23 Expo Japan 2015 was themed to “The Power of Story.” Guests were treated to spellbinding stories from each of the four Disney brands—Disney, Disney•Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel. Fans enjoyed experiences, merchandise, collectibles, and endless surprises created exclusively for the event.

D23 Expo Japan 2018 will once again feature special exhibits and opportunities for the delight and enjoyment of guests. Further details will be posted at http://disney.jp/D23 as they become available this summer.

“We heard from a lot of fans about how delighted they were with the D23 Expo Japan 2013 and 2015．D23 Expo Japan 2018 promises to be even more spectacular,” said Paul Candland, President, Walt Disney Asia and President, The Walt Disney Company (Japan) Ltd. “2018 marks The Walt Disney Company’s 95th anniversary and the 90th anniversary of Mickey Mouse’s screen debut. In Japan, it marks Tokyo Disney Resort’s 35th, Disney Channel’s 15th, and the Disney★JCB Card’s 10th. We’re very excited about being able to present this great event once again, and we know our guests will have an incredible experience during the three days we have planned for them.”

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March 24, 2017

Music of Pixar Live Debuts May 26th

The Music of Pixar Live! Will Debut at Disney’s Hollywood Studios This Summer

This summer, Disney’s Hollywood Studios will present “The Music of Pixar LIVE! A Symphony of Characters.” This limited-time concert event will showcase memorable music from Pixar Animation Studios films, complete with a live orchestra and appearances by beloved Disney•Pixar characters.

Starting May 26, “The Music of Pixar LIVE!” will be presented three times nightly at Theater of the Stars at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (following the regular daily performances of “Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage”). The show will also feature highlights from some of Pixar’s greatest scores, from films like “Toy Story” to “Cars 3.” Guests can also expect appearances by Woody, Jessie, Mike and Sulley, the Incredibles and more.

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Fast Pass+ Reservations for Pandora Now Online

IMPORTANT: You will not be able to book a FastPass+ for both Pandora attractions on the same day.

Great news for those of you anxiously counting the days until the opening of Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom on May 27 – FastPass+ reservations are now open to experience the land’s never-before-seen attractions for guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels.

As you may know, Pandora – The World of Avatar will transport guests to a visually stunning world with floating mountains, bioluminescent plants and more. It’ll also feature two one-of-a-kind attractions: Avatar Flight of Passage, which will allow guests to fly on a banshee over the world of Pandora and the family friendly Na’vi River Journey, which will send guests down a mystical river hidden within a bioluminescent rainforest.

Guests at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can reserve FastPass+ selections for the two attractions up to 60 days prior to check in, beginning today. For all other guests who have pre-purchased valid park admission, reservations will be available starting 30 days prior to their visit, beginning May 27, 2017. You may select one of these two attractions in your first set of Disney FastPass+ selections, depending on availability.

And beginning May 27 (through July 4), guests staying in select Walt Disney World Resort hotels will have the opportunity to experience Pandora — The World of Avatar with special nighttime Extra Magic Hours. Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels with a valid theme park admission can fly on the back of a banshee, navigate a mystical river and walk under floating mountains beyond regular park hours – from 11 p.m. until 1 a.m. This benefit is in addition to the Extra Magic Hours already available to you at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

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March 26, 2017

The Walt Disney Company Board of Directors Extends Robert A. Iger’s Contract as Chairman and CEO to July 2, 2019

BURBANK, Calif.-- (BUSINESS WIRE) --The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) Board of Directors announced today that it has extended Robert A. Iger’s contract as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer to July 2, 2019.

“Given Bob Iger’s outstanding leadership, his record of success in a changing media landscape, and his clear strategic vision for Disney’s future, it is obvious that the Company and its shareholders will be best served by his continued leadership as the Board conducts the robust process of identifying a successor and ensuring a smooth transition,” said Orin C. Smith, Independent Lead Director of the Disney Board.

Mr. Smith continued: “Mr. Iger has led The Walt Disney Company to unprecedented success during his 11 years as CEO, driving Disney to new creative heights, expanding the Company’s global reach, fostering technological innovation, and delivering year-after-year of record financial results. During his tenure, Mr. Iger has created enormous value for shareholders, with total shareholder return of 448%, compared to 144% for the S&P 500, and a dramatic increase in the Company’s market capitalization to $177 billion from $46 billion.”

“Leading this great company is a tremendous privilege, and I am honored to have been asked to continue serving as CEO through July 2, 2019,” Mr. Iger said. “Even with the incredible success the Company has achieved, I am confident that Disney’s best days are still ahead, and I look forward to continuing to build on our proven strategy for growth while working with the Board to identify a successor as CEO and ensure a successful transition.”

Details of the agreement will be included in a Form 8-K filed today.

Since Mr. Iger, 66, became CEO, The Walt Disney Company has been recognized as one of the “Most Reputable Companies” in both America and the world by Forbes magazine (2006-2017); one of “America's Most Admired Companies” by Fortune magazine (2009-2017); one of the “World's Most Respected Companies" by Barron’s (2009-2016); one of the “Best Places to Launch a Career” by BusinessWeek magazine (2006-2010); and as “Company of the Year” by Yahoo Finance (2013).

March 28, 2017

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Mar. 28, 2017 – The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic will return for its eighth year Friday, October 27, and Saturday, October 28, with exciting new dishes debuting alongside returning festival favorites. Fans can now visit www.SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com to view the 2017 food menu as well as book overnight packages and purchase tickets.

Also returning this year will be Carnival Corner and Chinatown, offering specialty cuisine in immersive themed areas, as well as the Sunday Bubbles Brunch on Sunday, Oct. 29. Original dessert offerings will once again be served by World Champion Pastry Chef Laurent Branlard. For a full list of current menu offerings, visit www.swandolphinfoodandwineclassic.com/eat/menu/all.html.

The Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic offers guests unlimited tastings at more than 50 stations featuring culinary selections from the hotel’s award-winning restaurants and wine from more than 30 wineries amidst a festive backdrop of live entertainment on the hotel’s scenic causeway. Upgraded ticket options allow guests to enjoy access to a beer garden featuring a wide selection of craft beers and Oktoberfest-inspired cuisine. The event also includes hands-on seminars with the hotel’s chefs and certified beverage experts.

Overnight and multiple-night package options are available for the eighth-annual Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic and can be booked by phone at 1-888-828-8850:

· One-night packages start at $424, and include room accommodations and two tickets to the outdoor festival (seminar tickets and beer garden tickets may be added for an additional fee)

· Two-night packages start at $824, and include room accommodations and two tickets to the outdoor festival for both nights (seminar tickets and beer garden tickets may be added for an additional fee)

Individual ticket options are also available for the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic and can be purchased at www.SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com (pricing is inclusive of tax and service fees):

· Advance-purchase, event-only tickets to enjoy unlimited tastings on the causeway are $115 per person

· Upgraded tickets, including unlimited tastings on the causeway and access to the beer garden, are $140 per person

With 17 restaurants and lounges, and a distinguished culinary and beverage team, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel continually earns national recognition for its food and beverage program. The hotel features more than 70 certified wine sommeliers and 1,400 wine selections.

For the latest information about the event, guests can visit www.SwanDolphinFoodandWineClassic.com, like www.facebook.com/swananddolphin or call 1-800-227-1500.

March 31, 2017

NEW My Disney Experience App Upgrades

Today Walt Disney World launches a newly redesigned My Disney Experience app for all mobile users! The enhanced My Disney Experience app features a look and feel to make planning and enjoying your Walt Disney World Resort vacation easier than ever.

The new My Disney Experience mobile app opens right to the park maps to help you find attractions, restaurants, restrooms and more. It makes it easier for you to navigate through our parks so you can spend more time enjoying the magic of Walt Disney World Resort. A new section called “Spotlight” highlights new park experiences and entertainment offerings to help you find out the latest and greatest happenings at the parks.

And when you stay at one of our Disney resorts, you will be able to use the new feature called “My Resort Dashboard,” which gives you access to your resort reservation details all in one place, including the ability to see room number, theme, building and floor once you have your room assignment. “My Resort Dashboard” even gives you directions to your resort using Disney transportation options, a map showing you the location of your room and a link to directly call the Resort Front Desk if you need further assistance during your stay.

For guests who enjoy visiting our other Disney Parks around the world, the new My Disney Experience app now features the same look and feel as our other park apps, making the mobile experience seamless across the globe.

To check out all of these exciting new app features, take a look at this short video!

The My Disney Experience app and MagicBand still work together seamlessly, allowing you to effortlessly connect all your vacation choices from the My Disney Experience app to your MagicBand.

My Disney Experience was designed to always evolve, and we have more exciting innovations to share so check back often for more details on future updates and enhancements.